Houseboat powered by smaller boat

ABSTRACT

A houseboat structure includes a forward opening well into which a relatively small power boat is received and retained to provide motive power. The forward location of the small boat permits, among other advantages, rear beaching of the larger boat and greater overall versatility. Alternate forward tow positions of the small boat are permitted through the use of a slidable retaining frame in the boat receiving well.

United States Patent [191' Hansen 14 1 June11,1974

1 1 HOUSEBOAT POWERED BY SMALLER BOAT [76] Inventor: Clarence C. Hansen,40 N. 130 St.,

Bonner Springs, Kans. 66012 [22] Filed: Apr. 25, 1973 [21] Appl. No.:354,329

Related US. Application Data [63] Continuation-impart of Ser. No.218,894, Jan. 19,

1972, abandoned.

[52] US. Cl. 114/235 R, 114/435 [51] Int. Cl B63b 21/00, B63b 35/44 [58]Field of Search 114/235 R, 235 A, 43.5, 114/.5 R, .5 F, .5 BD, 45, 51,61; 9/1 R, 30,

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,359,549 10/1944 2,744,4835/1956 Rhindress 114/45 Epstein 114/235 A 3,347,201 10/1967 Szabo114/235 R 3,596,623. 8/1971 Frankel ll4/43.5 3,659,546 5/1972 MiklOS114/235 R FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLlCATlONS 11,188 9/1924 Netherlands114/435 582,249 9/1959 Canada 114/435 Primary ExaminerGeorge E. A.Halvosa Assistant ExaminerEdward R. Kazenske Attorney, Agent, orFirm-Fishburn, Gold & Litman 5 7 ABSTRACT A houseboat structure includesa forward opening well into which a relatively small power boat isreceived and retained to provide motive.power.'The forward location ofthe small boat permits, among other advantages, r'ear beaching of thelarger boat and greater I overall versatility. Alternate forward towpositions of the small boat are permitted through the use of a slidableretaining frame in the boat receiving well.

22 Claims, 23 Drawing Figures mgmimuu 11 :974 I sum 03 llf12 PATENTEDJUNn 1924 (1815541 sum *05 or 12.

?ATE'N'TEDJun1 I 1914 sum 01 0:12;

'gQHIHIHHIJIHiIHI PATENTEUJUN 1 1 1914 S EE 080F12 PATENTEDJUH 1 1 1514saw us or 12 V 1 HOUSEBOAT POWERED BY SMALLER BOAT This is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 218,894 filed Jan. 19,1972, now abandoned.

This invention relates to recreational boats and, more particularly,relatively inexpensive houseboat type structures.

A form of recreation for the wealthy has long included living on thewater in more or less elaborate vessels or yachts used in addition tosmaller power boats for sports and high mobility. Increasingly popularin recent years for those less able to afford elaborate vessels has beenthe so-called houseboat, which may range from a very modest floatingcabin-type structure to a complex multi-room arrangement. In eithercase, a major cost item for the larger structure has centered aroundproviding a power plant for motive ability. By the practice of thisinvention, the relative cost ,of a houseboat is reduced, without losingversatility, by providing a structure for temporarily and easilyreceiving thereinto a smaller power boat in a forward towing relation,whereby the power plant of the smaller boat is utilized only as needed,to provide total motive power.

The principal objects of the present invention are: to provide a boatarrangement adapted to receive a smaller powered boat thereinto at theforward end to obtain maximum overall mobility, including rear beaching;to provide such an arrangement wherein the smaller boat may be easily,safely and securely retained with respect to the houseboat and thecombination protected against rough water; to provide such a combinationwherein the smaller boat maybe located in a forwardly extending positionfor short distance two operations or contained substantially within andbeneath the houseboat for longer distance trips; to provide such anarrangement'wherein power plant and steering control is accomplishedfrom the houseboat; to provide such a combination wherein the smallerboat is easily released for independent use; to provide such anarrangement that is adapted to have bilevel living quarters; to providesuch an arrangement that is sturdy in construction,

easy to use and operate and well adapted for its intended use; and toprovide such an arrangement which is suitable for utilization byrelatively simple or elaborate structures, is substantially lessexpensive than houseboat arrangements which include a selfcontainedpower plant and comprises a substantial advance in the art.

Other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent fromthe following description taken in connection with the accompanyingdrawings wherein are set forth by way of illustration and examplecertain embodiments of this invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a houseboat arrangement embodying thisinvention, with portions broken away to show a small power boat retainedin a frame within a receiving well.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the forward end of the arrangement ofFIG. 1 but showing the frame extending forwardly of the receiving well.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing details of the boat frame of FIGS.1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary perspective view of the houseboat forward end ona reduced scale, particularly showing the relationship between theboatframe and boat anchoring straps in the well.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary detail in side elevation showing reels for theanchoring straps of FIG. 4.

FIG. '9 is a fragmentary side elevation showing the towing pad of FIG.8.

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary front elevational view particularly showing thepositioning stopr'nembers and anchoring straps in use.

FIG. 11 is cross-sectional planview showing the lower level of thehouseboat structure and particularly the cooperative relation betweenthe small boat propeller and the houseboat rudder.

FIG. 12 is a generally schematic perspective view showing the houseboatrudder control, the surrounding structure being illustrated by phantomlines.

FIG. 13 is a fragmentary perspective view showing a remotely operatedthrottle control on the small power boat.

FIG. 14 is a fragmentary perspective view on a reduced scaleillustrating a bow cover located in well covering position.

FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of a modified form of houseboatarrangement wherein a portion of the forward deck is adapted to lift forreceiving the small power boat into the well therebeneath.

- FIG. 16 is a view similar to FIG. 15 but showing the forward deckportion elevated and the smaller boat received in the well.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a modified form small boat retainingframe.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a modified form of houseboatarrangement embodying this invention, with portions broken away to showa small power boat retained in a frame within a receiving well.

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of the modified form shown in FIG. 18with a side wall removed and portions of a'floatation member broken awayto show interior and structural details.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of the modified form shown in FIG. 18 with theroof removed to show interior details.

FIG. 21 is a bottom'view of the modified form shown in FIG. 18 withportions broken away to show structural details.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the modified form shown inFIG. 18 showing details of the small boat retaining means with the bowforming member in a closed position.

FIG. 23 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the modified form shown inFIG. 18 showing details of the small boat retaining means with the bowforming member in a down position.

Referring tothe drawings in more detail:

} The reference. numeral 1 generally indicates one form of houseboatstructure embodying this invention. The houseboat l, in this example,comprises a pair of elongated, laterally spaced apart pontoons or floatsections 2 and 3 adapted, when in normal use, to project substantiallyabove the water and respectively having a v I 3, i a forward end 4' andan aft end 5. A forward deck section 6 extends between and at the upperportion of the float sections 2 and 3, the float sections supporting thedeck section 6 substantially above the water, whereby a horizontallyextending well 7 is formed. The well 7 is defined by the space containedbetween the float sections 2 and 3, beneath the deck section 6 and abovewater level 8. The float section forward ends 4 define a forward accessopening 9 therebetween which communicates into the well 7.

A pair of generally horizontally extending slide retainers 10 arerespectively suitably mounted on the float sections 2 and 3within thewell 7 above normal water level 8. A'boat anchoring frame 11 issupported by the slide retainers 10 for selectively sliding from awithdrawn horizontal position generally contained between thefloatsections (FIG. 1) to an extended position projecting forwardly past thewell access opening 9 (FIG. 2). The anchoring frame 11, in this example(FIG. 3), comprises a rear section 15, and a forward section 16. Therear section 15 has parallel legs 17 and 18 suitably engaged by therespective slide retainers 10 and a rear cross-bar 19 extending betweenthefloat sections 2: and 3. Intermediate legs 20 and 21 of the rearsection 15 are telescopically received over the rear legs 17 and 18permitting a substantial adjustment of the overall length of the rearsection 15. Slide blocks 22 (FIGS. 3 and 7) provide the physical slidingconnecsuitable locking devices 23' prevent unwanted relative slidingbetween the legs 17-18, 20-21, and slide retainers 10. I

The frame forward section 16 includes parallel legs 24 and 25 normallyrespectively aligned with and abutting the frame rear section legs 20and 21 and a forward cross bar 26 extending therebetween. Verticalhinges 27 respectively connect the frame rear section legs 20 and 21 tothe forward section legs 24 and 25-permitting the forward cross bar 26,and legs 24 and 25, to pivot downwardly to a depending position with thecross bar 26 substantially beneath water level 8 (FIG. 3) when the frame1 1 is in an extended position. Tabs 28 project rearwardly from theforward section 16 and have bores 29 therethrough adapted to receive apin 30 which is received also through the rear section legs 20 and 21 toselectively lock the forward section 16 in a horizontal positionextending forwardly from the rear section legs 20 and 21.- a

A pair of ramp members 34 are positioned near the float section forwardends 4 and incline downwardly and forwardly from beneath the slideretainers 10. R01- lers 35 are mounted on the forward section legs 24and 25 in positions aligned with the ramp members 34 when the forwardcross bar 26 is pivoted downwardly (FIG. 3). As the rear section 15,which includes the rear section legs 20 ]nd 21, is slid rearwardly onthe slide retainers 10, as by a power boat 36 sacking therein, or asuitable draw cable 37, the rollers 35 engage the respective rampmembers 34 causing the forward section 16 to pivot upwardly to ahorizontal position. Locking may then be achieved by dropping the pins30 through the rear section legs 20 and 21 and tabs 28.

Tie-down bars 38 are located on the frame forward sections 16 insuitable positions to temporarily secure the front portion of the powerboat 36 within the boat anchoring frame 11, for example, as shown inFIG. 2 where ropes 39 are engaged between the tie-down bars 38 andsimilar bars'40 on the boat. Rear tie-down bars 41 are secured to therear section cross bar 19 for the same purpose. A bow pad 42 ispreferably secured centrally to the forward cross bar 26in a positionfor engaging the bow 43 of the power boat, 36. Positioning stop membersor hold-down devices 44 are secured, in

this example, to respective boat frame legs 20 and 21. The devices 44carry curved pads 45 (FIG. 6) adjustable both vertically andhorizontally on support bars 46 and 47 for engaging theboat 36 andpreventing upward and lateral movement relative to the-houseboat whenthe smaller boat is secured therewithin. The devices 44 are easilyadjustable, in this example, by means of lock pins 48 which arereceivable into selected, spaced openings 49 in the support bars 46 and47. The holddown devices may be easily releasedby pulling a lock pin 50(FIG. 6) which, in operativeposition, retains the support bar 47 on therear section legs 20 and 21.

A plurality of band anchors 51 are secured, in this example, to thefloat section 2within the well 7. Band reels 52 are secured to theopposite float section in po-' sitions opposed to the band anchors 51.Bands 53 have one end respectively secured to the band anchors, arelooped below water'level 8 beneath the well 7, and are subsequentlyattached at the other ends to the band reels 52. A suitable ratchetdevice 54 may be utilized to actuate the reels S2. therebydrawing thebands 53 upwardly into engagement with the boat hull bottom 55, andresisting relative downward motion of the power boat with respect to thehouseboat structure (FIG. 10). The hold-down devices 44 and bands 53cooperate to securely retain the boat 36 in the well for operation.

In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the forward deck section 6 has aforward portion 59 extending from the access opening 9 rearwardly to anintermediate position 60 on the houseboat 1. The forward portion 59comprises a plurality of mutually hinged deckboards 61 adapted toaccordion-fold into mutual engagement as shown in FIG. 2, therebyselectively exposing the well 7 .at-the forward end 4 for accessconvenience. The rearmost deckboard 61 is hinged to a normally upwardlydirected windshield panel 62 which may fold upwardly and rearwardly withthe accordion folded deckboards 61 to provide an auxiliary accessopening 63. The access opening 63 is utilized to provide verticalclearance forlarger outboard motors 64 on the power boat 36. Thewindshield panel 62, when in normal position as shown in FIG. 1, permitshouseboat manipula tionfrom a seated position within the power boat 36,if desired.

The roof 65 of the houseboat extends forwardly from a central cabinportion 66 over the deck forward portion 59. The forward end 67 of theroof 65 is supported by brace members 68, which, in this example,include inwardly open guide tracks 69 extending downwardly to deck levelwhere they communicate with track extensions 70 forrned on the inwardlyfacing surfaces of the respective float sections 2 and 3. Withparticular reference to FIG. 14, a bow cover 71 is normally storedbeneath the roof 65 and engages at lateral edges thereof in therespective guide tracks 69. When desired, for example, when the water isrough, the bow cover may be lowered on the guide tracks 69 by means ofsuitable chains 72, into active position between the float sections 2and 3, thereby closing the access opening 9.

A rear cabin portion 74 is located rearwardlyof the central cabinportion 66 and, preferably comprises additional living quarters whichmay include sleeping facilities, kitchen facilities, etc. An observationdeck 75 is desirably formed from the top of the rear cabin portion 74.

FIG. 12 illustrates a steering control arrangement for the craft whichincludes a hand wheel 76 engaging a control line 77 which operates oversuitable pulleys 78 and is secured to a rudder 79. The rudder 79 is, inthis example, positioned at the rear outlet of a hollow conduit 80 whichserves to protect the rudderupon rear beaching of the craft. The forwardend 81 of the conduit 80 opens adjacent location 82 where the drivepropeller 83 of the power boat 36 is positioned beneath the well 7.

Referring to FIG. 13, a control cable 84 terminates at one end thereof(not shown) within the central cabin portion 66 adjacent the'hand wheel76 and at the other end thereof temporarily engages the throttle 85 onthe power boat 36. In this manner, the motor 64 may be controlled fromwithin the cabin portion 66 during movement of the houseboat structureon the water. A suitable steering lock 86 preferably retains the powerboat steering wheel 87 in fixed position during the use of the smallercraft for motive power within the houseboat.

In operation, when it is desired to move the houseboat 1 from onelocation to another,- the deck boards 61 and windshield panel 62 arepreferably folded to the position illustrated in FIG. 2 and the boatanchoring frame 11 is slid forwardly to a position extending from theforward end 4. The pins are pulled and the forward section 16 ispermitted to drop to the position shown in FIG. 3. The hold-down devices44 may be removed and the bands 53 are permitted to loop downwardly intothe water substantially below the small boat hull bottom 55. g

The boat 36 is backed into the frame 11 and preferably secured at therear end by means of the rear tiedown bars 41. The boat 36 may thenbebacked into the well 7 under its own power or through a suitable winch(not shown) connected to the draw cable 37', the locking devices 23being previously set for the size boat used. Upon rearward movement ofthe power boat 36, the anchoring frame 11 slides rearwardly into thewell 7 whereupon the rollers contact the respective ramp members 34causing the frame forward section 16 to pivot upwardly to a position inplanar relation with the remainder of the boat anchoring frame. It isnecessary to replace the pins 30 through the projecting tabs 28 only ifthe frame 11 is permitted to extend forwardly, as shown in FIG. 2, forshort runs as noted below;

The smaller craft may then be temporarily secured within the well 7 bymeans of suitable ropes 39, the major retaining members being thehold-down devices 44 secured in position against the upper portion ofthe power boat 36 and the anchor bands 53 tightened against the hullbottom 55. If desired, the deck boards 61 and windshield panel 62 may bereturned into normal position and the houseboat operated under themotive power of the boat 36 either from the small boat or the centralcabin portion 66 as desired.

For short runs, or when unusual maneuverability is desired, it issometimes preferable to operate the small craft with the boat anchoringframe 11 extended as shown in FIG. 2. This position is further sometimesdesirable when backing the houseboat onto a beach, in order to protectthe propeller 83 from possible contact with the ground.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a modified form of this invention isillustrated wherein the central cabin portion 89 consists of a simpledeck structure with a railing and facilities for temporarily enclosingthe space with suitable window and wall structures 90. The rear cabinportion 91 may take the form of a collapsible camper arrangement, FIG.16 showing the rear cabin portion in expanded form.

The central cabin portion 89, in the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16includes, for example, a plurality of hydraulic rams 92 which, whenactuated, lift the central cabin portion 89 from the position shown inFIG. 15 to the position shown in FIG. 16, thus providing ample clearancefor backing the small power boat 93 therebeneath'After the boat 93 ispositioned therebeneath, the central cabin portion 89 is lowered toprovide a more stable houseboat configuration. Suitable clearancestructures 94 and 95 are provided in the deck of the central cabinportion 89 to receive the windshield and outboard motor through decklevel. The clearance structures 94 and 95 may beused as tables or thelike within the central cabin portion 89.

FIG. 17 shows a modified form of boat anchoring frame designated 98which does not include a downwardly pivoting forward section, asdescribed in connection with the anchoring frame 11. Rather, the frame98 is generally rigid along its overall length and pivots downwardly bymeans of a rear trunion arrangement 99 from the normal position 100 to aboat receiving position 101. The frame 98 slides forwardly andrearwardly in suitable guides 102 and pivoting is preferablyaccomplished by sliding bracket structures 103 positioned on oppositesides thereof. v

The bracket structures 103 include guide wheels or the like 104 forretaining the frame but permitting movement thereof forwardly andrearwardly therethrough. An upwardly directed rack bar 105 movesvertically in response to the rotation of a suitable pinion 106 whichmay be powered by any suitable means, including a hand crank (notshown). The guide wheels 104 are mounted on a plate 107 which ispivotally connected to the lower end of the rack bar 105 so that theplate may tilt when the frame 98 is dropped for receiving a boattherein. Suitable tie-down bars 108 are rigidly connected to the frame98 at selected forward and rear positions in order to anchor the boatwithin the frame. A bow pad 109 is provided for bow engagement with thesmall power boat.

FIGS. 18 through 23-inclusive-illustrate a modified form of thisinvention wherein the reference numeral 121 generally indicates ahouseboat. The houseboat 121 comprises a pair of elongate laterallyspaced apart pontoons or floatation members 122 and 123 which, when innormal use, project substantially above the surface of the water witheach having a forward end 124 and an aft end 125. A deck section 126extends between the float members 122 and 123 with the float memberssupporting the deck section 126 substantially above the water, whereby ahorizontally extending well 127 is formed. The well 127 is defined bythe float sections 122 and 123, the deck section 126 and the surface ofthe water 8. The forward ends 124 of the float sections define a forwardaccess opening 129 the'rebetween which communicates into the well 127.

A boat retaining or anchoring frame structure 131 is suitably mountedon-the float members 122 and 123 within the well 127 with portionsthereof preferably above normal water level. The frame 131 in thisexample is comprised of side sections 135 and a forward section or crossbrace 136. The side sections 135 include I generally parallel legmembers 137 and 138 that are preferably suitably pivotally mounted atthe rear on the respective float members 122 and 123 and preferably aretelescoping members extending toward the bow of the houseboat 121. Thecross brace 136 is mounted on the leg members 137 and 138, extendingtherebetween and preferably movableforward and aft therealong and hasmeans associated therewith for securing same in a selected positionalong the length of the legs 137 and 138. As illustrated, the crossbrace 136 has slide members 139 secured to each end thereof and whichare slidably mounted on the leg members 137 and 138. The means holdingthe cross brace 136 in a selected position is illustrated as a retainingpin 140 thatextends through the respective slides 139 and one of aplurality of apertures 141 that extend through 137 and 138. 7

In the illustrated structure, the house boat 121 is provided with a bowforming member 144 that extends between the floation members 122 and123, substantially closing the access opening 129. The bow formingmember 144 is mounted in such a manner as to be movable from a positionclosing the access opening 129, as illustrated in FIG. 22, to positionproviding clearance for the smaller boat 145't0 enter the well 127, asbest seen in FIG.- 23."Preferably, the bow member-144 moves downwardlybelow water level providing clearance for the boat 145 to passthereover. The leg members 137 and 138 have their forward e'nds suitablysecured to the bow member 144 wherein movement of the bow member 144effects movement of the leg member 137 and 138. As illustrated, the legs137 and 138 are each pivotally mounted on a channel type member 147 thatis secured to the interior surface of the bow member 144. Each of thechannel members 147 has a plurality of apertures 148-through portionsthereof for receiving a suitable pin 149 therethrough to connect therespective leg members l37'and 138 thereto in a pivoting relation.

The apertures 148 permit vertical adjustment of the position of thecross brace 136 for a purpose later def scribed.

In the illustrated structure, the floation members 122 and 123 arerespectively comprised of an upper portion 151 and 152 and a lowerportion 153 and 154 with each preferably being comprised of an outershell portion of a durable material such as metal or fiberglass andbeing filled with a closed cell foam material. The lower portions 153and 154 preferably are movable relative to the respective upper portions151 and 152 and 25 illustrated, are hingedly connected at the rearthereof by suitable hinges 155 whereby the lower portions 153 and 154will pivot downwardly from the rear thereof. In the illustratedstructure, the legs 137 and 138 are pivotally mounted on hearing members153' and 154' respectively that are secured to the upper surfaces of thelower portions 153 and 154 respectively. Means are provided to effectthe movement of the lower portions 153 and 154 and in the form shownextendible cylinders such as hydraulic cylinders 156 are the leg membersoperatively connected thereto to effect selective movement thereof.Actuatingor brace members 157 are suitably connected between the upperportions 151 and 152, the respectivelower portions 153 and 154 and thebow forming member 144 whereby movement of the lower portions relativeto the upper portions effects movement of the bow member 144 and theframe structure 131. Asillustrated, the actuating members 157 aregenerally triangular in shape, each having a portion thereof secured tothe interior surface of the bow forming member 144 andbeingpivotally'connected to the respective upper portions as at 159 andtherespective lower portions as at 158. Each actuating member 157 ispivotally connected to the respective lower portion as at 158 andpivotally connected to the respective upper portion as at 159. In theillustrated structure, the pivotal connection as at 159 includes a slideor guide member 160 secured to the respective upper portion and having aguide track 161 therein. A

hearing member 162 is engaged with or retained in the track 161 andsecured to the actuating member 157 whereby during downward movement ofthe respective lower portion, the bearing member 162 will move forwardin the track 161 with the bow forming member 144 moving downwardly to amore horizontal position.

The-bow forming member 144 moves downwardly sufficiently below waterlevel to permit movement of the boat 145 thereover and can also serve asa platform when in the down position for a swimmer or the like. The legmembers 137 and 138 move in response to movement of the lower portions153 and 154 and by being mounted thereon, extra clearance is providedfor the small boat 145 because the legs 137 and 138 move downwardly withthe lower portions 153 and 154.

As best seen in FIG. 21, the lower portions 153 and 154 have edgeportions that converge toward one another toward the rear thereof so asto partially underlie portions of the boat 145 when same is positionedwithin the well 127. A retaining bracket means 164 is suitably securedto the underside of the deck portion 126 on each side of the well 127and are operable to help retain the boat 145 within the well 127. Asillustrated, the retaining brackets 164 preferably are adjustable bothhorizontally and vertically toaccommodate different sizes of boats 145.Preferably the brackets 164 are provided with padded engaging members165 that will engage an upper surface portion of the aft end of the boat145 preventing both lateral and upward movement within the well 127. Thecross brace member 136 is provided with a bow engaging member or pad 167that is operable to engage the bow of the smaller boat 145 to helpretain same within the well 127. Preferably the bow pad 167 is pivotallysecured to the cross brace 136 and is positioned midway between thefloatation members 122 and 123. The smaller boat 145 is retained withinthe well 127 and has its movement limited by the bow pad 167, whichprevents forward movement of the boat 145 within the well 127, and theretaining brackets 164. Upward movement of the lower portions 153 and154 moves the bow pad 167 into engagement with the bow of the boat 145and the pads 168 into engagement with the bottom surface of the boat 14Sadjacent the stern thereof. Further upward movement of the lowerportions 153 and 154 urges the boat 145 to move upwardly whereby uppersurface portions of the boat 145 move into engagement with the retainingbrackets 164. Abutment members 169 are provided in the well 137. A motor170 of the boat 145 is positioned within a motor well 171 with the motor170 preferably being positioned aft of the center of the houseboat 121.Ventilation for the motor 170 is provided by a vent 172 communicatingbetween the well 171 and the exterior of the houseboat 121 andpreferably opens upwardly and out of the roof of the houseboat 121.

I The houseboat structure 121 is provided with means permitting ingressinto and egress out of the small boat 145 when same is retained withinthe well 127. In the illustrated structure, the passenger compartment ofthe small boat 145 is positioned under the deck section 126 and alsounder a cabin portion 175. As illustrated, a hatch or trap door member176 is provided in the deck section 126 to permit the ingressinto andegress out of the small boat 145. Suitable ladder or step means (notshown) can also be provided adjacent the hatch 176 to facilitate theingress and egress.

In the illustrated structure, the floatation members 122 and 123 extendrearwardly from the bow of the houseboat structure 121 terminatingadjacent the motor well 171. A barge type hull 177 extends rearwardlyfrom the rear portion of the floatation members 122 and 123 to the stern178 of the houseboat 121. Preferably the hull portion 177 has a. flat orsubstantially flat bottom surface forming member 180 extendingsubstantially the width of the houseboat 121 terminating rearwardly inan upwardly sloping or curved stern portion 179 The flat bottom surfacemember 180 and the upwardly curved stern 179 permits rear beaching ofthe houseboat 121. The motor 170 is positioned sufficiently forward ofthe stem 178 to prevent same from grounding when the houseboat 121- isstern beached. It is to be noted that the height of the stern 178 isless than the height of the bow of the houseboat 121 and permits easyentrance into and exit out of the houseboat 121 to the shore on which itis beached. Stair means (not shown) can also be provided at the stern178 to facilitate the entering and exiting. Guard rails 179' are mountedon the stern and help prevent falling overboard therefrom.

In the illustrated structure, the houseboat 121 is provided with twocabins or living quarters forming portions preferably on two levelswhereby the cabin portion 175 has a floor formed by the deck section 126and is positioned above the normal water level. A rear cabin portion 182is positioned aft of the cabin portion 175 and has a floor thereof lowerthan the floor of the cabin 175 wherein the floor of the cabin 182 ispositioned adjacent the normal water level and is formed by the interiorsurface of the bottom member 180. As best seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, thecabins 175 and 182 are provided with living facilities includingsleeping quarters, lounging quarters restroom facilities and kitchenfacilities and also storage areas. A stairwell 183 is provided to permitmovement between the two cabin portions 175 and 182. Doors 181 and 184are provided for the cabins 175 and 182 respectively permitting entryinto and exit from the same. Preferably the doors 181 and 184 are of asliding type with the door 181 providing access through the front wallof the cabin 175 and the door 182 providing access through the back wallof the cabin 182.

Roof members 185 and 186are provided for the cabins 175 and 182respectively with a stairwell 187 prol0 viding access to the roof 186from the cabin 175 As illustrated, the roof member 186 can be used as anobservation deck or lounging area and is provided with guard rails 186to prevent falling overboard therefrom. A ladder 185' is mounted on therear wall of the cabin 182 and extends to the roof 186 for providingaccess thereto from the exterior of the cabin 182 adjacent the stern178.

Means are provided to operatively connect to the controls of the smallboat 145 so that same can be controlled from within the cabin 175. Ahand wheel 188 is mounted in the cabin 175 adjacent the forward wallthereof and is operable to control steering movement of the motor 170during movement of the houseboat structure 121 on the water. Preferablythe wheel 188 is connected to the power boat steering wheel 189 in sucha manner that both can be used to steer the houseboat 121. The throttlecontrol for the motor 170 is also connected to a remote throttle controlmember 1 90 for control of the operating speed of the motor 170 fromwithin the cabin 175. A control panel 189' is provided adjacent thewheel 188 and preferably has start-stop controls for the motor 170mounted thereon and also includes instruments mounted thereon thatindicate such conditions as motor temperature, oil temperature and motorspeed.

In operation,-the bow member 144 is lowered by activation of thehydraulic cylinders 156, lowering the lower portions 153 and 154 and theframe structure 13.1 and providing clearance for the small boat 145 topass thereover. The boat 145 is backed into the well 127 until the stemthereof abuts the members-169. The retaining bracket 164 can then beadjusted vertically and horizontally suitably for theparticular size ofthe boat 145 so that on raising of the lower portions 153 and 154 theboat 145 will be grippingly retained between the pads 165 and 168. Theposition of the bow pad 167 is adjusted preferably before the boat 145is backed into the well 127 wherein the vertical position is adjusted bysecuring the end of the leg members 137 and 138 within the properaperture 148 of the channel members 147.. Horizontal or forward and aftadjustment of the bow pad 167 is accomplished by sliding the cross brace136 forward and aft along the leg members 137 and 138 to the desiredposition and securing same there at by placing the retaining pins 140through the slide members 139 and in the proper and selected apertures141. Upon raising of the lower portions 153 and 154 by activation of thehydraulic cylinders 156, the bow pad 167 moves upwardly into engagementwith the bow of the small boat 145 whereby the small boat 145 isretained between bow pad 167 and the abutment pads 169, preventingforward and aft movement of the boat within the well 127. The cylinders156 remain pressurized on the upstroke to hold the lower portions 153and 154, the frame 131 and the bow member 144 in the up or retainingposition. The bow pad 167 prevents downward movement of the boat 145within the well 127 and suitable means such as a spring loaded shockabsorber (not shown) can be provided to prevent upward movement of theboat 145 within the well 127. A latch (not shown) can be provided toprevent accidental lowering of the bow member 144 when in use.

The operator, after backing the boat 145 into the well 127, thenconnects the remote control means to the throttle and the motor 170 sothat same can be controlled within the cabin 175. Fuel storage tanks 191are provided to store fuel in'addition to the fuel stored in the fueltank of the small boat 145. The tanks 191 store fuel for long trips andif safety requirements permit they can be connected to the small boatfuel tank or the small boat fuel tanks can be filled from the tanks 191outside of the well 121. After the connections are made, the operatorcan then exit from the small boat 145 into the cabin 175 through thehatch 176.

The houseboat 121 can be moved or propelled about a body of water to adesired location and can be beached or anchored, providingsemi-permanent living quarters. The small boat 145 .can then be releasedfrom the well 127 for independent use when short runs or pleasure use,such as towing skiers, is desired.

7 The ability to rear-beach the boat is of substantial advantage sinceit reduces the danger of water washing over the stern, provides a morepleasing viewing position for the occupants, a much easier and saferposition for refloating the larger boat and a convenient position forlaunching and capturing the smaller-boat. The float members 122 and 123allow incoming waves to break around same and into the well 127 therebydampening movement of v the houseboat 121 when beached to make living onthe houseboat more comfortable. The well 127 provides a garage forstorage of the small boat 145 when not being used thereby eliminatingthe need to moor it alongside when not in use. One problem with .presenthouseboat structures is that they are not adapted for towing skiers'andthat boats adapted to tow skiers are not adapted to be lived in. Thehouseboat structures described herein provide living quarters as well aspermitting the use of the small boat to tow skiers.

It is to be understood that while certain forms of this inventionhavebeen illustrated and described, it is not to be limited thereto exceptinsofar as such limitations are included in the following claims.

What I claim and desire to secure by letters Patent is:

l. In a boat structure having a forward end:

a. means forming a well above water level and extending horizontallybeneath said boat structure, said means at least partially defining anaccess opening into said well at said forward end;- and b. means securedto said well forming means and selectively retaining a smaller powerboat within said well for providing motive power to said structure, saidlatter means including-an elongated frame rigid along the length thereofand having a rear portion pivoted to said well forming means, said framehaving'at least a portion thereof pivotable downwardly beneath waterlevel for receiving the smaller boat thereover.

2. In a boat structure having a forward end:

a. means forming a well above water level and extending horizontallybeneath said boat structure, said well forming means at least partiallydefining an access opening into said well at saidforward end; and

b. retaining means associated with said well forming means andselectively retaining a smaller power boat within said well, saidsmaller power boat entering and exiting through said forward accessopening and having propelling means for providing motive power to saidstructure, said retaining means including a rigid frame slidablehorizontally within said well and having portions selectively movablefrom a retaining position to a second posi tion permitting entry andexit of said smaller power boat into and out of said well, saidretaining means engaging the bow of said smaller power boat.

3. The structure as set forth in claim 2 including:

a. means forming an upwardly sloping surface portion at the stem end ofthe structure, said upwardly sloping surface portion being positionedaft of said smaller power boat propelling means whereby said structureis adapted for stem beaching.

4. The structure as set forth in claim 2 wherein:

a. said frame has at least a portion thereof pivotable downwardlybeneath water level for receiving said smaller power boat thereover.

5. The structure as set forth in claim 2 wherein:

a. said frame is adapted to at least partially surround said smallerpower boat; and

b. means are provided between said well forming means and said frame forpermitting said frame to selectively project forwardly of said wellwhile retaining said smailer power boat with respect to said wellforming means. i

6. The structure as set forth inclaim 2 wherein:

a. said boat'structure includes a deck section at said forward end andmeans for selectively lifting and lowering said deck section to providevertical clearance for receiving said smaller power boat into said well.

7. The structure as set forth in claim 6 wherein:

a. said deck section includes clearance structures receiving upwardlyprojecting portions of said smaller power boat upon lowering said decksection.

8. In a boat structure having a forward end:

a. means forming a well above water level and extending horizontallybeneath said boat structure, said well forming means at least partiallydefining an access opening into said well at said forward end; and b.retaining means associated with said well formin means and selectivelyretaining a smaller 'power boat within said well, said smaller powerboat having propelling means for providing motive power to saidstructure, said retaining means including a rigid horizontallydisplaceable frame having portions selectively movable from a retainingposition to a second position permitting entry and exit of said smallerboat into and out of said well through said forward access opening, atleast one of said frame portions being pivotable, a member secured tosaid frame and movable with said pivotable portion from a first positionin said access opening to a second position providing clearance for'said smaller power boat when entering said well, said movable memberforming a blockage to said access opening at the bow of said structurewhen said movable member is in said first position.

9. The structure as set forth in claim 8 wherein:

a. said well forming means includes spaced apart floatation members anda deck forming member extending therebetween above said smaller powerboat, said deck forming member having means associated therewithproviding ingress to and egress from said smaller power boat when it isretained within said well.

10. The structure as set forth in claim 3 wherein:

- a. said movable member is adapted to move downwardly below water levelto said second position permitting said smaller power boat to passthereover.

11. The structure as set forth in claim 3 wherein:'

a. said structure includes a deck section having at least two levels,one of said levels being above said smaller power boat and extending aftfrom the bow end of said structure and terminating at the other of saidlevels, said other level being lower than said one level and extendingaft therefrom.

12. The structure as set forth in claim 8 including:

a. means operatively connected to said smaller power boat propellingmeans and adapted to permit control of same from a remote position.

13. The structure as set forth in claim 8 wherein:

a. said movable member substantially closes said access opening in saidfirst position.

14. The structure as set forth in claim 13 including:

16. The structure as set forth in claim 15 including:

a. a bow pad mounting on said cross brace for engaging the bow of saidsmaller power boat. 17. The structure as set forth in claim 15including:

a. means associated with said frame and said cross braceand operable forpermitting vertical adjustment of said cross brace to compensate fordifferent sizes of said smaller power boat.

18. The structure as set forth in claim 8 wherein:

a. said well forming means includes at least two floatation members inspaced apart relation each extending rearwardly from the bow of saidboat strucc. said floatation member lowerportions extend partially underportions of said smaller power boat and engaging same when in the raisedposition. 20. The structure as set forth in claim 18 wherein: a. saidfloatation members extend aft and terminate at a hull portion of saidstructure, said hull portion having a substantially flat bottomextending the width of said structure. I 21. The structure as set forthin claim 18 including:

a. a second member secured to said frame structure and movable with saidmovable frame portions from a first position substantially closing saidaccess opening to a second position providing clear? ance for saidsmaller power boat when entering said well; and wherein b. said movableframe portions and said movable member and said lower portions areoperatively connected whereby movement of said lower portions effectsmovement of said frame portions and movement of said movable member forproviding clearance for said smaller power boat when entering said well.

22. The structure as set forth in claim 18 including;

a. hinge means secured at aft portions of said floatation member lowerportions and to said respective floatation member upper portions wherebysaid relative downward movement is pivotal movement about said hingemeans.

1. In a boat structure having a forward end: a. means forming a wellabove water level and extending horizontally beneath said boatstructure, said means at least partially defining an access opening intosaid well at said forward end; and b. means secured to said well formingmeans and selectively retaining a smaller power boat within said wellfor providing motive power to said structure, said latter meansincluding an elongated frame rigid along the length thereof and having arear portion pivoted to said well forming means, said frame having atleast a portion thereof pivotable downwardly beneath water level forreceiving the smaller boat thereover.
 2. In a boat structure having aforward end: a. means forming a well above water level and extendinghorizontally beneath said boat structure, said well forming means atleast partially defining an access opening into said well at saidforward end; and b. retaining means associated with said well formingmeans and selectively retaining a smaller power boat within said well,said smaller power boat entering and exiting through said forward accessopening and having propelling means for providing motive power to saidstructure, said retaining means including a rigid frame slidablehorizontally within said well and having portions selectively movablefrom a retaining position to a second position permitting entry and exitof said smaller power boat into and out of said well, said retainingmeans engaging the bow of said smaller power boat.
 3. The structure asset forth in claim 2 including: a. means forming an upwardly slopingsurface portion at the stern end of the structure, said upwardly slopingsurface portion being positioned aft of said smaller power boatpropelling means whereby said structure is adapted for stern beaching.4. The structure as set forth in claim 2 wherein: a. said frame has atleast a portion thereof pivotable downwardly beneath water level forreceiving said smaller power boat thereover.
 5. The structure as setforth in claim 2 wherein: a. said frame is adapted to at least partiallysurround said smaller power boat; and b. means are provided between saidwell forming means and said frame for permitting said frame toselectively project forwardly of said well while retaining said smallerpower boat with respect to said well forming means.
 6. The structure asset forth in claim 2 wherein: a. said boat structure includes a decksection at said forward end and means for selectively lifting andlowering said deck section to provide vertical clearance for receivingsaid smaller power boat into said well.
 7. The structure as set forth incLaim 6 wherein: a. said deck section includes clearance structuresreceiving upwardly projecting portions of said smaller power boat uponlowering said deck section.
 8. In a boat structure having a forward end:a. means forming a well above water level and extending horizontallybeneath said boat structure, said well forming means at least partiallydefining an access opening into said well at said forward end; and b.retaining means associated with said well forming means and selectivelyretaining a smaller power boat within said well, said smaller power boathaving propelling means for providing motive power to said structure,said retaining means including a rigid horizontally displaceable framehaving portions selectively movable from a retaining position to asecond position permitting entry and exit of said smaller boat into andout of said well through said forward access opening, at least one ofsaid frame portions being pivotable, a member secured to said frame andmovable with said pivotable portion from a first position in said accessopening to a second position providing clearance for said smaller powerboat when entering said well, said movable member forming a blockage tosaid access opening at the bow of said structure when said movablemember is in said first position.
 9. The structure as set forth in claim8 wherein: a. said well forming means includes spaced apart floatationmembers and a deck forming member extending therebetween above saidsmaller power boat, said deck forming member having means associatedtherewith providing ingress to and egress from said smaller power boatwhen it is retained within said well.
 10. The structure as set forth inclaim 3 wherein: a. said movable member is adapted to move downwardlybelow water level to said second position permitting said smaller powerboat to pass thereover.
 11. The structure as set forth in claim 3wherein: a. said structure includes a deck section having at least twolevels, one of said levels being above said smaller power boat andextending aft from the bow end of said structure and terminating at theother of said levels, said other level being lower than said one leveland extending aft therefrom.
 12. The structure as set forth in claim 8including: a. means operatively connected to said smaller power boatpropelling means and adapted to permit control of same from a remoteposition.
 13. The structure as set forth in claim 8 wherein: a. saidmovable member substantially closes said access opening in said firstposition.
 14. The structure as set forth in claim 13 including: a. meansassociated with said movable member and adapted to selectively retainsaid movable member in said first position.
 15. The structure as setforth in claim 8 wherein: a. said retaining means includes a cross bracemounted on portions of said frame and extending substantially acrosssaid well forward of the bow of said smaller power boat, said crossbrace being selectively movable forward and aft along said frameportions providing adjustment to compensate for different lengths ofsaid smaller power boat.
 16. The structure as set forth in claim 15including: a. a bow pad mounting on said cross brace for engaging thebow of said smaller power boat.
 17. The structure as set forth in claim15 including: a. means associated with said frame and said cross braceand operable for permitting vertical adjustment of said cross brace tocompensate for different sizes of said smaller power boat.
 18. Thestructure as set forth in claim 8 wherein: a. said well forming meansincludes at least two floatation members in spaced apart relation eachextending rearwardly from the bow of said boat structure, saidfloatation members each including an upper portion and a lower portion,said lower portions being movable downwardly from a raised position to alowered position relative to the respective upper portions.
 19. ThestructurE as set forth in claim 18 wherein: a. said well is partiallydefined by a member extending between said floatation members in spacedrelation to the water level; b. said retaining means includes retainingbrackets mounted on said members extending between said floatationmember and adapted to engage portions of said smaller power boat; and c.said floatation member lower portions extend partially under portions ofsaid smaller power boat and engaging same when in the raised position.20. The structure as set forth in claim 18 wherein: a. said floatationmembers extend aft and terminate at a hull portion of said structure,said hull portion having a substantially flat bottom extending the widthof said structure.
 21. The structure as set forth in claim 18 including:a. a second member secured to said frame structure and movable with saidmovable frame portions from a first position substantially closing saidaccess opening to a second position providing clearance for said smallerpower boat when entering said well; and wherein b. said movable frameportions and said movable member and said lower portions are operativelyconnected whereby movement of said lower portions effects movement ofsaid frame portions and movement of said movable member for providingclearance for said smaller power boat when entering said well.
 22. Thestructure as set forth in claim 18 including: a. hinge means secured ataft portions of said floatation member lower portions and to saidrespective floatation member upper portions whereby said relativedownward movement is pivotal movement about said hinge means.